Local Newshttp://kbnd.com
KBND Local Newsen-usConstruction Begins On New Kenwood Gymhttp://kbnd.com/kbnd-news/local-news-feed/348362
Danise LeeFri, 16 Feb 2018 08:11:00 -0600http://kbnd.com/kbnd-news/local-news-feed/348362
BEND, OR -- The students of Highland Magnet School at Kenwood School lost their gym last winter, when the roof collapsed under a snow load. But, a new gymnasium is starting to take shape on the west side of Bend. Concrete was poured this week for the foundation and a third of the walls.

A temporary 5,500 sf military tent, on loan from Mt. Bachelor, was erected in August, to provide the kids a place to hold gym class. Principal Brian Kissell says the tent has worked out well, but everyone is looking forward to the return of a permanent structure. "The progress on the gym has been incredibly fast. As soon as we closed out the tent permit, we pretty much jumped right into the construction process for the new gym." He adds, "The whole construction crew has just been really fantastic about being able to capitalize on every good weather day. And then, when we've had some kind of downturns in the weather, they've been able to really minimize any time lost, and really continue making progress on all the different parts of the project."

Kissell tells KBND News the students are staying out from underfoot, but that doesn't mean they're not part of the process, "It's still fascinating to watch and some of our kindergarten classes have a front row seat out their window[s] and get to see the big trucks moving around and get to enjoy that."

If construction continues at its current rate, Kissell says, "It looks like we'll be opening the new gym for fall next year, which is fantastic news."

Aerial view of the roof collapse at Highland Magnet School at Kenwood, taken January 12, 2017

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BEND, OR -- The students of Highland Magnet School at Kenwood School lost their gym last winter, when the roof collapsed under a snow load. But, a new gymnasium is starting to take shape on the west side of Bend. Concrete was poured this week for the foundation and a third of the walls.

A temporary 5,500 sf military tent, on loan from Mt. Bachelor, was erected in August, to provide the kids a place to hold gym class. Principal Brian Kissell says the tent has worked out well, but everyone is looking forward to the return of a permanent structure. "The progress on the gym has been incredibly fast. As soon as we closed out the tent permit, we pretty much jumped right into the construction process for the new gym." He adds, "The whole construction crew has just been really fantastic about being able to capitalize on every good weather day. And then, when we've had some kind of downturns in the weather, they've been able to really minimize any time lost, and really continue making progress on all the different parts of the project."

Kissell tells KBND News the students are staying out from underfoot, but that doesn't mean they're not part of the process, "It's still fascinating to watch and some of our kindergarten classes have a front row seat out their window[s] and get to see the big trucks moving around and get to enjoy that."

If construction continues at its current rate, Kissell says, "It looks like we'll be opening the new gym for fall next year, which is fantastic news."

Aerial view of the roof collapse at Highland Magnet School at Kenwood, taken January 12, 2017

]]>Sisters To Participate In Nat'l Wildfire Programhttp://kbnd.com/kbnd-news/local-news-feed/348355
Danise LeeFri, 16 Feb 2018 07:47:00 -0600http://kbnd.com/kbnd-news/local-news-feed/348355
SISTERS, OR -- Sisters is trying to take a proactive approach to wildfire preparation. It's one of eight communities in the country to be chosen to receive help from the Community Planning Assistance for Wildfire (CPAW) program. It's a year-long program focusing on land use planning, forestry, research, and wildfire risk modeling.

CPAW Project Leader Molly Mowery says as communities grow, preparing for wildfire resilience becomes ever more important. "When we talk about planning, we're referring to land use planning. We're literally using land use planning tools that they might be better able to leverage and look at, 'Where is current development? Where would future development occur?' And what kind of ways can they really think about wildfire as part of that process."

She tells KBND News it's not about clear-cutting and building only with concrete, but about protection and preparation, "Can the community be more resilient to wildfire through more resistant structures or landscaping techniques? We're hoping to help support the community in thinking about ways that they can integrate wildfire better into the planning and process."

The program is funded through the U.S. Forest Service and private foundations, and their advice and support is free to the communities selected to participate. Bend was selected to take part in 2016. CPAW will host a kick-off presentation Tuesday, February 20, at 9:30 a.m., at the Sisters-Camp Sherman Fire station. To learn more about the program, click HERE.

Photo: The Milli Fire destroyed thousands of acres near Sisters in August 2017.

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SISTERS, OR -- Sisters is trying to take a proactive approach to wildfire preparation. It's one of eight communities in the country to be chosen to receive help from the Community Planning Assistance for Wildfire (CPAW) program. It's a year-long program focusing on land use planning, forestry, research, and wildfire risk modeling.

CPAW Project Leader Molly Mowery says as communities grow, preparing for wildfire resilience becomes ever more important. "When we talk about planning, we're referring to land use planning. We're literally using land use planning tools that they might be better able to leverage and look at, 'Where is current development? Where would future development occur?' And what kind of ways can they really think about wildfire as part of that process."

She tells KBND News it's not about clear-cutting and building only with concrete, but about protection and preparation, "Can the community be more resilient to wildfire through more resistant structures or landscaping techniques? We're hoping to help support the community in thinking about ways that they can integrate wildfire better into the planning and process."

The program is funded through the U.S. Forest Service and private foundations, and their advice and support is free to the communities selected to participate. Bend was selected to take part in 2016. CPAW will host a kick-off presentation Tuesday, February 20, at 9:30 a.m., at the Sisters-Camp Sherman Fire station. To learn more about the program, click HERE.

Photo: The Milli Fire destroyed thousands of acres near Sisters in August 2017.

Earlier this week, Rogue and is human partner, Officer Josh Zundel, conducted a traffic stop. Rogue alerted to the presence of drugs and the vehicle was searched. Jimmy Burkhart, a 27-year-old Madras man, was arrested after a concealed handgun was found. A deeper search then turned up over 22 grams of meth and about $600 in cash.

Redmond Police say they are "very excited about having another drug detection dog to utilize in drug investigations."

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REDMOND, OR -- Redmond Police are welcoming their latest officer. K9 “Rogue” recently completed several weeks of certification training and is already assisting in arrests.

Earlier this week, Rogue and is human partner, Officer Josh Zundel, conducted a traffic stop. Rogue alerted to the presence of drugs and the vehicle was searched. Jimmy Burkhart, a 27-year-old Madras man, was arrested after a concealed handgun was found. A deeper search then turned up over 22 grams of meth and about $600 in cash.

Redmond Police say they are "very excited about having another drug detection dog to utilize in drug investigations."

]]>Worrisome Incidents Investigated At Bend Schoolshttp://kbnd.com/kbnd-news/local-news-feed/348336
Heather RobertsFri, 16 Feb 2018 07:01:00 -0600http://kbnd.com/kbnd-news/local-news-feed/348336
BEND, OR -- Several incidents at Bend-area schools have prompted investigations at a time when parents, students and educators are on heightened alert, following Wednesday’s mass shooting at a Florida high school.

The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office is investigating separate incidents at High Desert Middle School in Bend, where two boys were temporarily removed, Thursday. At around 11:20, a student pulled the fire alarm. The school was evacuated but there was no emergency. About 20 minutes later, a different student engaged in what was described as “inappropriate behavior amongst his peers." Officials would not elaborate but said it worried other students. Both students have reportedly been disciplined by school administration.

All Bend-La Pine Schools saw an increased law enforcement presence Thursday, following a reported threat against Summit High that was later deemed not credible.

A Sunriver Police Officer parks in front of Three Rivers School in Sunriver, Thursday morning.

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BEND, OR -- Several incidents at Bend-area schools have prompted investigations at a time when parents, students and educators are on heightened alert, following Wednesday’s mass shooting at a Florida high school.

The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office is investigating separate incidents at High Desert Middle School in Bend, where two boys were temporarily removed, Thursday. At around 11:20, a student pulled the fire alarm. The school was evacuated but there was no emergency. About 20 minutes later, a different student engaged in what was described as “inappropriate behavior amongst his peers." Officials would not elaborate but said it worried other students. Both students have reportedly been disciplined by school administration.

All Bend-La Pine Schools saw an increased law enforcement presence Thursday, following a reported threat against Summit High that was later deemed not credible.

A Sunriver Police Officer parks in front of Three Rivers School in Sunriver, Thursday morning.

]]>Local Principal Addresses Safety Concernshttp://kbnd.com/kbnd-news/local-news-feed/348331
Heather RobertsFri, 16 Feb 2018 06:48:00 -0600http://kbnd.com/kbnd-news/local-news-feed/348331
BEND, OR -- Students, parents and educators across the country are reacting to another school tragedy, following Wednesday’s mass shooting at a Florida high school that left 17 dead. Bend Senior High Principal Chris Reese echoes what many are feeling, "My heart just aches for that community and that school. And - Wow - It’s just tough. No words can describe it."

Reese says he talked with students Thursday to reassure them and address concerns. He also met with his staff to reaffirm safety protocols and discuss the importance of developing trust with the kids. He tells KBND News, "We also encourage our staff to have those conversations about school safety with their students and just continue to foster those positive relationships; and that is so huge." Principal Reese believes if kids trust school staff, they will be more comfortable in reporting suspicious behavior, "So, if stuff comes up or parents or students hear about things – whether it be social media or text messages, or just hear things that concern them, they feel that they can report those issues to staff members and we can address them."

He says Bend High students were just trained Tuesday on the First Step App and Safe Oregon program - a tipline that takes concerns from students and follows up with local authorities. Students can report anonymously, if they want, by phone or online. Safe Oregon has received over 500 tips since it began in January 2017.

Bend High School practices lock-out and lock-down drills a couple times a year, along with the typical fire drill, and Reese says safety is a top priority, "Unfortunately, now we’ve got to talk seriously about school safety. When I first got into education, I got in to educate students and I wasn’t really thinking about that. Now, these tragedies are happening and it seems like they’re happening frequently and, you know, we’ve got to prepare for that. It’s something that nobody likes to talk about but we have to talk about it."

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BEND, OR -- Students, parents and educators across the country are reacting to another school tragedy, following Wednesday’s mass shooting at a Florida high school that left 17 dead. Bend Senior High Principal Chris Reese echoes what many are feeling, "My heart just aches for that community and that school. And - Wow - It’s just tough. No words can describe it."

Reese says he talked with students Thursday to reassure them and address concerns. He also met with his staff to reaffirm safety protocols and discuss the importance of developing trust with the kids. He tells KBND News, "We also encourage our staff to have those conversations about school safety with their students and just continue to foster those positive relationships; and that is so huge." Principal Reese believes if kids trust school staff, they will be more comfortable in reporting suspicious behavior, "So, if stuff comes up or parents or students hear about things – whether it be social media or text messages, or just hear things that concern them, they feel that they can report those issues to staff members and we can address them."

He says Bend High students were just trained Tuesday on the First Step App and Safe Oregon program - a tipline that takes concerns from students and follows up with local authorities. Students can report anonymously, if they want, by phone or online. Safe Oregon has received over 500 tips since it began in January 2017.

Bend High School practices lock-out and lock-down drills a couple times a year, along with the typical fire drill, and Reese says safety is a top priority, "Unfortunately, now we’ve got to talk seriously about school safety. When I first got into education, I got in to educate students and I wasn’t really thinking about that. Now, these tragedies are happening and it seems like they’re happening frequently and, you know, we’ve got to prepare for that. It’s something that nobody likes to talk about but we have to talk about it."

]]>Bend LaPine Schools To Host Two Job Fairshttp://kbnd.com/kbnd-news/local-news-feed/348218
Danise LeeThu, 15 Feb 2018 12:17:00 -0600http://kbnd.com/kbnd-news/local-news-feed/348218
BEND, OR -- Bend La-Pine School District is hosting two job fairs to attract prospective employees for positions ranging from bus driver to nutrition services to graphic designer. Human Resources Director Debbie Watkins says the first fair will be this Saturday from 11 am to 2:30 pm at Bend Senior High and will focus on support staff positions. "We just hope we have a really great turn out. It's a great opportunity to talk to some of our principals, talk with the department leads in a very low stress environment, learn about each other and figure out where the fit might be best."

Watkins says there's current staff on hand to speak with applicants and direct them to the jobs that would suit them best. "We're always looking for great people to join our team, and the key is to find the spot where somebody is happy."

The second event will be the Certified Teacher job fair, looking for educators who will be interacting with students in the classroom, and it will be at the Deschutes County Fairgrounds on April 5th. Watkins says both events will be a completely interactive experiences for the applicants. "We're going to have people giving tours of our production kitchen, be able to drive a school bus, sit on one of our riding lawn mowers to get a feel for what that would be like, and then, when somebody has an idea of what they want to apply for, we'll actually have computers there that day where we can sit with a person and do the application process."

The first fair will be held at Bend Senior High this Saturday from 11 am to 2:30 pm and the second event, the Certified Teacher job fair, will be at the Deschutes County Fairgrounds on April 5th from 1 to 6 pm..

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BEND, OR -- Bend La-Pine School District is hosting two job fairs to attract prospective employees for positions ranging from bus driver to nutrition services to graphic designer. Human Resources Director Debbie Watkins says the first fair will be this Saturday from 11 am to 2:30 pm at Bend Senior High and will focus on support staff positions. "We just hope we have a really great turn out. It's a great opportunity to talk to some of our principals, talk with the department leads in a very low stress environment, learn about each other and figure out where the fit might be best."

Watkins says there's current staff on hand to speak with applicants and direct them to the jobs that would suit them best. "We're always looking for great people to join our team, and the key is to find the spot where somebody is happy."

The second event will be the Certified Teacher job fair, looking for educators who will be interacting with students in the classroom, and it will be at the Deschutes County Fairgrounds on April 5th. Watkins says both events will be a completely interactive experiences for the applicants. "We're going to have people giving tours of our production kitchen, be able to drive a school bus, sit on one of our riding lawn mowers to get a feel for what that would be like, and then, when somebody has an idea of what they want to apply for, we'll actually have computers there that day where we can sit with a person and do the application process."

The first fair will be held at Bend Senior High this Saturday from 11 am to 2:30 pm and the second event, the Certified Teacher job fair, will be at the Deschutes County Fairgrounds on April 5th from 1 to 6 pm..

]]>Local Leaders Launch 'Celebrate Cannabis'http://kbnd.com/kbnd-news/local-news-feed/348213
Danise LeeThu, 15 Feb 2018 11:56:00 -0600http://kbnd.com/kbnd-news/local-news-feed/348213
BEND, OR -- Celebrate Cannabis is a new organization with the mission of unifying and giving voice to the legal cannabis community and educating the public as to the positive aspects the industry brings to the area. Jennifer Clifton, of Clifton Cannabis Law, is one of the Founders of Celebrate Cannabis, and she says the industry is more than just about a fun culture, it has contributed to tourism and, most importantly, employment opportunities. "First, jobs. Jobs, jobs, jobs. Hundreds of jobs, and we're at $800,000 over the last few years in tax revenue to Deschutes County. So, we've all benefitted from the cannabis industry."

She says, if people truly understood cannabis and the benefits it brings to the Central Oregon community, there would be no further objections, and Celebrate Cannabis' mission is to make it easy to find true information about the industry. "Celebrate Cannabis is, you can go to a web portal and we're going to have access to information you can get and education about the industry. And we're going to be doing other industries like workshops and webinars to help inform the public about the industry, and debunk myths that just aren't true about it."

The other founders include Hunter Neubauer of Oregrown, Chris Telfer of Spectrum CPA Group, Gary Bracelin of Tokyo Starfish, Judy Campbell of Campbell Consulting Group, and Jack Robson of High Desert Pure.

Clifton says they started Celebrate Cannabis because education about cannabis hasn't kept pace with the industry's rapid growth. "We're seeing a change across the nation, and I would hate to be left out based on backwoods thinking." She adds that, because once people know the truth about cannabis, she thinks they'll stop fearing it. "I just think that we need to get all the facts before we just become rigid in our views and I don't feel like there's been full disclosure and understanding of the industry, so we're hoping to shed some light on that."

Celebrate Cannabis will be holding workshops and webinars that will share information about the benefits of the industry to Deschutes County including product innovation, philanthropy, and environmental friendliness.

For more information, go to www.celebrate-cannabis.org. Clifton wants to emphasize that Celebrate Cannabis only celebrates safe, responsible, adult use.

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BEND, OR -- Celebrate Cannabis is a new organization with the mission of unifying and giving voice to the legal cannabis community and educating the public as to the positive aspects the industry brings to the area. Jennifer Clifton, of Clifton Cannabis Law, is one of the Founders of Celebrate Cannabis, and she says the industry is more than just about a fun culture, it has contributed to tourism and, most importantly, employment opportunities. "First, jobs. Jobs, jobs, jobs. Hundreds of jobs, and we're at $800,000 over the last few years in tax revenue to Deschutes County. So, we've all benefitted from the cannabis industry."

She says, if people truly understood cannabis and the benefits it brings to the Central Oregon community, there would be no further objections, and Celebrate Cannabis' mission is to make it easy to find true information about the industry. "Celebrate Cannabis is, you can go to a web portal and we're going to have access to information you can get and education about the industry. And we're going to be doing other industries like workshops and webinars to help inform the public about the industry, and debunk myths that just aren't true about it."

The other founders include Hunter Neubauer of Oregrown, Chris Telfer of Spectrum CPA Group, Gary Bracelin of Tokyo Starfish, Judy Campbell of Campbell Consulting Group, and Jack Robson of High Desert Pure.

Clifton says they started Celebrate Cannabis because education about cannabis hasn't kept pace with the industry's rapid growth. "We're seeing a change across the nation, and I would hate to be left out based on backwoods thinking." She adds that, because once people know the truth about cannabis, she thinks they'll stop fearing it. "I just think that we need to get all the facts before we just become rigid in our views and I don't feel like there's been full disclosure and understanding of the industry, so we're hoping to shed some light on that."

Celebrate Cannabis will be holding workshops and webinars that will share information about the benefits of the industry to Deschutes County including product innovation, philanthropy, and environmental friendliness.

For more information, go to www.celebrate-cannabis.org. Clifton wants to emphasize that Celebrate Cannabis only celebrates safe, responsible, adult use.

]]>Bend-La Pine Schools Names New Summit Principal http://kbnd.com/kbnd-news/local-news-feed/348162
Heather RobertsThu, 15 Feb 2018 08:54:00 -0600http://kbnd.com/kbnd-news/local-news-feed/348162
BEND, OR -- An assistant principal at Summit High School will take over the top job, in July. Bend-La Pine Schools has named Michael McDonald as Summit’s next Principal, following the departure of Alice DeWittie, who is leaving the district.

McDonald has more than 25 years of experience in education and has been the assistant principal since 2004. Superintendent Shay Mikalson calls McDonald’s leadership style “personal and growth-oriented.” In a statement, Mikalson said, "I look forward to seeing Michael continue the excellent work that has always been a hallmark of the Summit community and student body. Michael is a strong leader and a champion for our students and staff."

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BEND, OR -- An assistant principal at Summit High School will take over the top job, in July. Bend-La Pine Schools has named Michael McDonald as Summit’s next Principal, following the departure of Alice DeWittie, who is leaving the district.

McDonald has more than 25 years of experience in education and has been the assistant principal since 2004. Superintendent Shay Mikalson calls McDonald’s leadership style “personal and growth-oriented.” In a statement, Mikalson said, "I look forward to seeing Michael continue the excellent work that has always been a hallmark of the Summit community and student body. Michael is a strong leader and a champion for our students and staff."

]]>Oregon WinterFest Kicks Off Fridayhttp://kbnd.com/kbnd-news/local-news-feed/348160
Heather RobertsThu, 15 Feb 2018 08:39:00 -0600http://kbnd.com/kbnd-news/local-news-feed/348160
BEND, OR -- Oregon WinterFest takes place in Bend, this weekend; although, the weather could be closer to spring-like for the annual celebration of all things frigid.

Event Coordinator Kirsten Morrell is watching the forecast closely, but isn’t worried. She tells KBND News, it could be worse, "We’ve had experiences in the past where winter just hasn’t arrived and we’ve kind of had to roll with it. We bring some snow down from Mt. Bachelor for the rail jam and that usually does it. And it’s been super fantastic, actually, that we did get some snow here in town, because that gets us really jazzed for this weekend." In 2015, WinterFest organizers were forced to cancel all snow-related events due to poor conditions. This year, Morrell says they’re watching for wind and rain, but she doesn’t expect the weather will negatively impact the overall event.

"We like to call it Oregon’s biggest party of the winter, because there’s not a lot of major winter events here in Central Oregon," says Morrell. "There are a ton of activities going on throughout the weekend. We open up the event at 5 p.m. on Friday and that starts with fire pits and music, and food and shopping." And, she says there are a couple of new additions for 2018, "In the past we haven’t had a gourmet food and lifestyles tent, and we do this year; so, that’s really exciting. Then, we also have a Polar Market, which is outdoors. It’s like a sporting and outdoor-goods sort of marketplace."

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BEND, OR -- Oregon WinterFest takes place in Bend, this weekend; although, the weather could be closer to spring-like for the annual celebration of all things frigid.

Event Coordinator Kirsten Morrell is watching the forecast closely, but isn’t worried. She tells KBND News, it could be worse, "We’ve had experiences in the past where winter just hasn’t arrived and we’ve kind of had to roll with it. We bring some snow down from Mt. Bachelor for the rail jam and that usually does it. And it’s been super fantastic, actually, that we did get some snow here in town, because that gets us really jazzed for this weekend." In 2015, WinterFest organizers were forced to cancel all snow-related events due to poor conditions. This year, Morrell says they’re watching for wind and rain, but she doesn’t expect the weather will negatively impact the overall event.

"We like to call it Oregon’s biggest party of the winter, because there’s not a lot of major winter events here in Central Oregon," says Morrell. "There are a ton of activities going on throughout the weekend. We open up the event at 5 p.m. on Friday and that starts with fire pits and music, and food and shopping." And, she says there are a couple of new additions for 2018, "In the past we haven’t had a gourmet food and lifestyles tent, and we do this year; so, that’s really exciting. Then, we also have a Polar Market, which is outdoors. It’s like a sporting and outdoor-goods sort of marketplace."

]]>Redmond PD Reacts To Council Fee Decisionhttp://kbnd.com/kbnd-news/local-news-feed/348148
Heather RobertsThu, 15 Feb 2018 07:57:00 -0600http://kbnd.com/kbnd-news/local-news-feed/348148
REDMOND, OR -- Redmond City Councilors agree the Police Department needs more officers, but they - so far - have failed to come to a consensus on how to fund the hiring of more staff. At this week's Council meeting, they decided to push any talk of a ballot measure or levy to the fall election; instead, opting to look at prioritizing public safety in the 2018-19 budget. They discussed a proposed $6 monthly utility fee to pay for as many as six new officers, but chose not to impose such a charge right away.

Lt. Curtis Chambers says there is a possibility Council could find the money in the next budget cycle, "They have indicated that they want to hire more officers in that budget but that will come at a cost to other city departments. What that looks like will be determined as the budget process proceeds in the next couple of months." But, he says, "That doesn't solve the revenue problem." Lt. Curtis tells KBND News, "The Police Department is in the same general operating fund as transportation and parks and some capital improvements. Sacrifices will have to be made in other departments, in order to prioritize public safety, with the current revenue that we have." He says shifting money to increase police funding would drastically impact the city's overall budget for years to come, if a new revenue source isn't found, "The bucket is only so large and there are a lot of hands."

The Budget Committee will go line-by-line, this spring, to determine whether money is available in the 2018-19 budget for new staff. If they find the funding, Lt. Chambers believes between one and three officers could be on patrol before the end of the year. While other local law enforcement agencies have struggled to fill vacancies, he says Redmond PD has not had that problem, "We currently, at this moment, have a hiring list that we can pull from the moment we get the okay to start hiring officers. And, assuming that those people are still looking for employment and still desire to work at the Redmond Police Department, we would be able to hire those individuals very quickly in the new budget year, which starts July one."

City Council is still considering a November ballot measure, to ask voters to support a fee or tax increase.

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REDMOND, OR -- Redmond City Councilors agree the Police Department needs more officers, but they - so far - have failed to come to a consensus on how to fund the hiring of more staff. At this week's Council meeting, they decided to push any talk of a ballot measure or levy to the fall election; instead, opting to look at prioritizing public safety in the 2018-19 budget. They discussed a proposed $6 monthly utility fee to pay for as many as six new officers, but chose not to impose such a charge right away.

Lt. Curtis Chambers says there is a possibility Council could find the money in the next budget cycle, "They have indicated that they want to hire more officers in that budget but that will come at a cost to other city departments. What that looks like will be determined as the budget process proceeds in the next couple of months." But, he says, "That doesn't solve the revenue problem." Lt. Curtis tells KBND News, "The Police Department is in the same general operating fund as transportation and parks and some capital improvements. Sacrifices will have to be made in other departments, in order to prioritize public safety, with the current revenue that we have." He says shifting money to increase police funding would drastically impact the city's overall budget for years to come, if a new revenue source isn't found, "The bucket is only so large and there are a lot of hands."

The Budget Committee will go line-by-line, this spring, to determine whether money is available in the 2018-19 budget for new staff. If they find the funding, Lt. Chambers believes between one and three officers could be on patrol before the end of the year. While other local law enforcement agencies have struggled to fill vacancies, he says Redmond PD has not had that problem, "We currently, at this moment, have a hiring list that we can pull from the moment we get the okay to start hiring officers. And, assuming that those people are still looking for employment and still desire to work at the Redmond Police Department, we would be able to hire those individuals very quickly in the new budget year, which starts July one."

City Council is still considering a November ballot measure, to ask voters to support a fee or tax increase.

]]>Georgia Inmate Admits To DCSO Scamhttp://kbnd.com/kbnd-news/local-news-feed/348134
Heather RobertsThu, 15 Feb 2018 06:54:00 -0600http://kbnd.com/kbnd-news/local-news-feed/348134
MORGAN, GA -- A Georgia inmate admits he tried to scam Deschutes County residents, calling and telling would-be victims they were in contempt of court for missing jury duty and needed to pay a fine with a prepaid card. Jay Baron Wright was indicted in November; he pleaded guilty this week to Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud and will be sentenced at a later date.

Federal prosecutors say Wright and other inmates made the calls to Oregon residents using contraband cell phones smuggled into Calhoun State Prison. They told people they could pay the fine with a Money Pak Green Dot card, by providing the card number to the caller. The money was then transferred to other Green Dot Cards.

At least three people in Oregon fell for the scam, transferring values slightly less than $1,000 to cards used by various co-conspirators in South Carolina. Wright faces a maximum sentence of 20 years, with a potential fine up to $250,000.

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MORGAN, GA -- A Georgia inmate admits he tried to scam Deschutes County residents, calling and telling would-be victims they were in contempt of court for missing jury duty and needed to pay a fine with a prepaid card. Jay Baron Wright was indicted in November; he pleaded guilty this week to Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud and will be sentenced at a later date.

Federal prosecutors say Wright and other inmates made the calls to Oregon residents using contraband cell phones smuggled into Calhoun State Prison. They told people they could pay the fine with a Money Pak Green Dot card, by providing the card number to the caller. The money was then transferred to other Green Dot Cards.

At least three people in Oregon fell for the scam, transferring values slightly less than $1,000 to cards used by various co-conspirators in South Carolina. Wright faces a maximum sentence of 20 years, with a potential fine up to $250,000.

]]>Scammers Seek Out Lonely Targetshttp://kbnd.com/kbnd-news/local-news-feed/347998
Heather RobertsWed, 14 Feb 2018 12:54:00 -0600http://kbnd.com/kbnd-news/local-news-feed/347998
BEND, OR -- Love is in the air ... and online, which can be especially attractive to scammers.

Stephen Mayer, with the Better Business Bureau, says criminals often troll for victims online by using a stolen profile picture, "Maybe someone who’s really good looking – a male model or female model – so, using those to peruse online dating websites and look for people who may be vulnerable and then try to make contact with them. And, their end-goal is to rip you off and get your money." He says if the person on the screen appears “too perfect,” alarms should ring in your head, "If it’s too good to be true, it probably is. In this case, if it’s too hot to be true, it probably is."

He tells KBND News scammers will often avoid meeting you in person, sometimes claiming to be in the military or working overseas to explain they can’t meet up, "If they’re trying to get you to communicate through just email or some sort of messaging service, or even trying to get your phone number – if they’re trying to get you off that website and into a more private way of communication, that’s also a red flag to watch out for." But, he says the end-goal is always the same: to get your money.

Mayer says if you use online dating sites, you should also watch out for people who start talking about a future together very early on; oftentimes they’ll say they’ve ‘never felt this way before.’ Also beware of those who have a hard-luck story, "‘I lost my job’ or ‘one of my family members is sick.’ Or, ‘I got to get some money from you to deal with a death of a parent or a spouse for those burial costs.’ We’ve seen it all," says Mayer, "And they have no shame, unfortunately, in creating these stories: ‘you love me, right? Why can’t you just help me out with this one thing?’ And, they’re really trying to get you to send them some money."

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BEND, OR -- Love is in the air ... and online, which can be especially attractive to scammers.

Stephen Mayer, with the Better Business Bureau, says criminals often troll for victims online by using a stolen profile picture, "Maybe someone who’s really good looking – a male model or female model – so, using those to peruse online dating websites and look for people who may be vulnerable and then try to make contact with them. And, their end-goal is to rip you off and get your money." He says if the person on the screen appears “too perfect,” alarms should ring in your head, "If it’s too good to be true, it probably is. In this case, if it’s too hot to be true, it probably is."

He tells KBND News scammers will often avoid meeting you in person, sometimes claiming to be in the military or working overseas to explain they can’t meet up, "If they’re trying to get you to communicate through just email or some sort of messaging service, or even trying to get your phone number – if they’re trying to get you off that website and into a more private way of communication, that’s also a red flag to watch out for." But, he says the end-goal is always the same: to get your money.

Mayer says if you use online dating sites, you should also watch out for people who start talking about a future together very early on; oftentimes they’ll say they’ve ‘never felt this way before.’ Also beware of those who have a hard-luck story, "‘I lost my job’ or ‘one of my family members is sick.’ Or, ‘I got to get some money from you to deal with a death of a parent or a spouse for those burial costs.’ We’ve seen it all," says Mayer, "And they have no shame, unfortunately, in creating these stories: ‘you love me, right? Why can’t you just help me out with this one thing?’ And, they’re really trying to get you to send them some money."

]]>Last Blockbuster In The Lower 48 Is In Bendhttp://kbnd.com/kbnd-news/local-news-feed/347991
Danise LeeWed, 14 Feb 2018 11:20:00 -0600http://kbnd.com/kbnd-news/local-news-feed/347991
BEND, OR -- At its peak, in 2004, Blockbuster had nearly 9,100 video stores. Now, only a handful of brick and mortar stores remain; and the last two in the contiguous U.S. are in Central Oregon.

Ken and Debbie Tisher own the Bend and Redmond locations. Sandi Harding is the General Manager for both, and says they cater to a different kind of customer - one who's looking for a community experience. "We have loyal customers and because of them, we've been able to stay open longer than most other locally owned Blockbusters across America. At this point, our two Central Oregon stores are the last two in the Lower 48."

However, that soon will change, "Unfortunately, it's sort of a sign of the times," Harding tells KBND News. "There's just so many options for people for home entertainment, at this point, that it's really hard to stay viable in the business. The Redmond store, unfortunately, has been struggling, and it's come to a time now where we just can't keep it open."

Earlier this year, a store in Sandy, Oregon closed, along with the last Blockbusters in Texas. When the Redmond location (pictured) closes in mid-March, the store on NE Revere Ave. in Bend will be the only one left. Six stores remain open in Alaska, where internet coverage is spotty.

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BEND, OR -- At its peak, in 2004, Blockbuster had nearly 9,100 video stores. Now, only a handful of brick and mortar stores remain; and the last two in the contiguous U.S. are in Central Oregon.

Ken and Debbie Tisher own the Bend and Redmond locations. Sandi Harding is the General Manager for both, and says they cater to a different kind of customer - one who's looking for a community experience. "We have loyal customers and because of them, we've been able to stay open longer than most other locally owned Blockbusters across America. At this point, our two Central Oregon stores are the last two in the Lower 48."

However, that soon will change, "Unfortunately, it's sort of a sign of the times," Harding tells KBND News. "There's just so many options for people for home entertainment, at this point, that it's really hard to stay viable in the business. The Redmond store, unfortunately, has been struggling, and it's come to a time now where we just can't keep it open."

Earlier this year, a store in Sandy, Oregon closed, along with the last Blockbusters in Texas. When the Redmond location (pictured) closes in mid-March, the store on NE Revere Ave. in Bend will be the only one left. Six stores remain open in Alaska, where internet coverage is spotty.

]]>Bend PD Chief Says Radio System Improvinghttp://kbnd.com/kbnd-news/local-news-feed/347909
Heather RobertsWed, 14 Feb 2018 06:42:00 -0600http://kbnd.com/kbnd-news/local-news-feed/347909
BEND, OR -- Bend’s Police Chief was an outspoken supporter of the county’s law enforcement radio upgrade plans. But, he’s frustrated with how the new system has worked.

Chief Jim Porter is praising Deschutes County Commissioners for taking immediate action as soon as they were made aware of serious technical problems that led to garbled and lost transmissions; in some cases forcing officers to call in on cell phones during emergency situations. The county is now working on developing two new radio tower sites, and there are plans to hire a full-time radio engineer; two things Chief Porter says he advocated for from the start, "Money-wise, we’re in a good place; we truly, truly are because this stuff was already budgeted. We’re moving forward with it and we’re going to save you money and time by hiring an engineer who is qualified to maintain this site and make sure my officers are safe." Porter says they’ve identified two sites on Bend’s west side for new transmission towers … one on Overturf Butte, and the other near the water treatment plant. He tells KBND News, "That site was already scheduled to be built out, so the money was already budgeted. It wasn’t my decision not to build the site; it was the county 911 district decision not to build the site." He’s hopeful a temporary radio tower will be online in the very near future, increasing coverage on the west side of Bend.

Porter says development of the system deviated from the original design and, some computer code was set up incorrectly, leading to problems, There’s nobody more frustrated when my police officers are in a foot chase with someone armed with a gun and they have no way to call in. I’ve been a Chief for a while, but I remember what it’s like to be a cop. When my cops are out at domestics and they have to use their cell phone to call in, it’s very frustrating."

Chief Porter says that for the first time in six months, he’s optimistic about the direction things are headed. Te hear our full conversation with Bend's Police Chief, click HERE or visit our Podcast Page.

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BEND, OR -- Bend’s Police Chief was an outspoken supporter of the county’s law enforcement radio upgrade plans. But, he’s frustrated with how the new system has worked.

Chief Jim Porter is praising Deschutes County Commissioners for taking immediate action as soon as they were made aware of serious technical problems that led to garbled and lost transmissions; in some cases forcing officers to call in on cell phones during emergency situations. The county is now working on developing two new radio tower sites, and there are plans to hire a full-time radio engineer; two things Chief Porter says he advocated for from the start, "Money-wise, we’re in a good place; we truly, truly are because this stuff was already budgeted. We’re moving forward with it and we’re going to save you money and time by hiring an engineer who is qualified to maintain this site and make sure my officers are safe." Porter says they’ve identified two sites on Bend’s west side for new transmission towers … one on Overturf Butte, and the other near the water treatment plant. He tells KBND News, "That site was already scheduled to be built out, so the money was already budgeted. It wasn’t my decision not to build the site; it was the county 911 district decision not to build the site." He’s hopeful a temporary radio tower will be online in the very near future, increasing coverage on the west side of Bend.

Porter says development of the system deviated from the original design and, some computer code was set up incorrectly, leading to problems, There’s nobody more frustrated when my police officers are in a foot chase with someone armed with a gun and they have no way to call in. I’ve been a Chief for a while, but I remember what it’s like to be a cop. When my cops are out at domestics and they have to use their cell phone to call in, it’s very frustrating."

Chief Porter says that for the first time in six months, he’s optimistic about the direction things are headed. Te hear our full conversation with Bend's Police Chief, click HERE or visit our Podcast Page.

]]>Deadly Prineville Shooting Deemed Justifiedhttp://kbnd.com/kbnd-news/local-news-feed/347890
Heather RobertsWed, 14 Feb 2018 05:47:00 -0600http://kbnd.com/kbnd-news/local-news-feed/347890
PRINEVILLE, OR -- A Prineville man has been cleared by a Grand Jury, which found he was justified in shooting and killing a man, last fall. According to the Crook County District Attorney’s Office, witnesses corroborated Larry Hoevet’s account of events.

On October 22, 56-year-old Kenneth McBeth showed up at Hoevet’s house, uninvited. He demanded the return of personal property; but, when 40-year-old Hoevet refused to open the door, the two reportedly exchanged angry words. McBeth then said he was coming in anyway, counted to three and threw a patio chair through the front window.

Hoevet says he feared for his life and shot in the direction of the broken window, striking McBeth in the chest. McBeth retreated to a parking lot where he collapsed. Several neighbors immediately came to his aid, but he later died. The Medical Examiner found the cause of death to be "chest trauma resulting from a single gunshot wound." Hoevet called 911 and remained on the line with dispatch as police arrived. Thy say he was cooperative and turned himself in for further questioning.

D.A. Wade Whiting said in a statement: "Under Oregon law, a person has an absolute right to feel safe and secure in their own home. A person can be justified in using deadly physical force if another person is committing or attempting to commit a burglary in their dwelling." He went on to say, "In this instance, the grand jury has determined that Hoevet was justified in using deadly physical force under the circumstances he encountered and it was reasonable for him to believe his life was endangered at the time he discharged the firearm from his own home."

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PRINEVILLE, OR -- A Prineville man has been cleared by a Grand Jury, which found he was justified in shooting and killing a man, last fall. According to the Crook County District Attorney’s Office, witnesses corroborated Larry Hoevet’s account of events.

On October 22, 56-year-old Kenneth McBeth showed up at Hoevet’s house, uninvited. He demanded the return of personal property; but, when 40-year-old Hoevet refused to open the door, the two reportedly exchanged angry words. McBeth then said he was coming in anyway, counted to three and threw a patio chair through the front window.

Hoevet says he feared for his life and shot in the direction of the broken window, striking McBeth in the chest. McBeth retreated to a parking lot where he collapsed. Several neighbors immediately came to his aid, but he later died. The Medical Examiner found the cause of death to be "chest trauma resulting from a single gunshot wound." Hoevet called 911 and remained on the line with dispatch as police arrived. Thy say he was cooperative and turned himself in for further questioning.

D.A. Wade Whiting said in a statement: "Under Oregon law, a person has an absolute right to feel safe and secure in their own home. A person can be justified in using deadly physical force if another person is committing or attempting to commit a burglary in their dwelling." He went on to say, "In this instance, the grand jury has determined that Hoevet was justified in using deadly physical force under the circumstances he encountered and it was reasonable for him to believe his life was endangered at the time he discharged the firearm from his own home."

]]>RSD Receives Grant For 2017 Snowstormshttp://kbnd.com/kbnd-news/local-news-feed/347750
Heather RobertsTue, 13 Feb 2018 09:46:00 -0600http://kbnd.com/kbnd-news/local-news-feed/347750
REDMOND, OR -- The Redmond School District is the latest to receive federal funds as reimbursement for costs incurred during last winter's extreme weather. Redmond Schools will receive a $464,000 grant from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to recoup the expense of removing snow from roofs during a January 2017 storm.

U.S. Senator Ron Wyden (D-OR) said in a statement, "I am gratified this federal assistance is heading to Redmond schools so the district can be reimbursed for unexpected snow expenses. Ensuring local resources are not forced to be spent outside the classroom is a must for students, teachers and staff to have every opportunity at educational excellence."

"Our schools can't budget for surprise weather events, and our students shouldn't suffer when they strike," U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley (D-OR) said in a statement issued Tuesday.

Photo: Crews remove snow from Redmond High School, January 16, 2017

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REDMOND, OR -- The Redmond School District is the latest to receive federal funds as reimbursement for costs incurred during last winter's extreme weather. Redmond Schools will receive a $464,000 grant from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to recoup the expense of removing snow from roofs during a January 2017 storm.

U.S. Senator Ron Wyden (D-OR) said in a statement, "I am gratified this federal assistance is heading to Redmond schools so the district can be reimbursed for unexpected snow expenses. Ensuring local resources are not forced to be spent outside the classroom is a must for students, teachers and staff to have every opportunity at educational excellence."

"Our schools can't budget for surprise weather events, and our students shouldn't suffer when they strike," U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley (D-OR) said in a statement issued Tuesday.

Photo: Crews remove snow from Redmond High School, January 16, 2017

]]>Tumalo to Get New Fire Stationhttp://kbnd.com/kbnd-news/local-news-feed/347753
Danise LeeTue, 13 Feb 2018 09:46:00 -0600http://kbnd.com/kbnd-news/local-news-feed/347753
TUMALO, OR -- The Deschutes Rural Fire Protection District No. 2 is designing a new Fire station to replace the Tumalo Location. Dave Howe, Bend Fire Battalion Fire Chief, says the current Tumalo Station is too small and not set up to accommodate a crew large enough to meet current standards. "It served really well, but it really only was set up, essentially, for only having one person. Having one person on an engine is substandard and is unsafe for normal Fire Department operations, so we now have a standard of three people on each engine, which means we need to have three people in the station, minimum."

An Open House will take place at the current Tumalo Fire Station, on 4th street in Tumalo, this afternoon from 4 to 6 pm, and Howe says the purpose is to hear what the residents think of the new plan. "We want the community to really see itself as a partner with us in protection ... fire protection, injury protection. So, we're trying to be as transparent as possible, say 'Hey, this is what we're planning. This is your Fire Station, we are your Fire Department.' So, we're hoping that people will give us some constructive input, and also, hopefully, will appreciate what we're doing."

According to Howe, one of the best parts about getting this new Fire Station is that the District has been saving for it. "This is not going to cost any more. The District actually collects taxes every year and what they do is, they put aside a little bit every year, to make sure that they can afford a station or whatever they might need, so there's not going to be any tax increase at all, it's going to be pretty much handled by the budget."

Howe says the house that's next to the current station, on 4th street in Tumalo, will be relocated and renovated into affordable housing and the entire property will be used to create the new Fire Station.

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TUMALO, OR -- The Deschutes Rural Fire Protection District No. 2 is designing a new Fire station to replace the Tumalo Location. Dave Howe, Bend Fire Battalion Fire Chief, says the current Tumalo Station is too small and not set up to accommodate a crew large enough to meet current standards. "It served really well, but it really only was set up, essentially, for only having one person. Having one person on an engine is substandard and is unsafe for normal Fire Department operations, so we now have a standard of three people on each engine, which means we need to have three people in the station, minimum."

An Open House will take place at the current Tumalo Fire Station, on 4th street in Tumalo, this afternoon from 4 to 6 pm, and Howe says the purpose is to hear what the residents think of the new plan. "We want the community to really see itself as a partner with us in protection ... fire protection, injury protection. So, we're trying to be as transparent as possible, say 'Hey, this is what we're planning. This is your Fire Station, we are your Fire Department.' So, we're hoping that people will give us some constructive input, and also, hopefully, will appreciate what we're doing."

According to Howe, one of the best parts about getting this new Fire Station is that the District has been saving for it. "This is not going to cost any more. The District actually collects taxes every year and what they do is, they put aside a little bit every year, to make sure that they can afford a station or whatever they might need, so there's not going to be any tax increase at all, it's going to be pretty much handled by the budget."

Howe says the house that's next to the current station, on 4th street in Tumalo, will be relocated and renovated into affordable housing and the entire property will be used to create the new Fire Station.

]]>Rickard Road Garage Destroyed In Firehttp://kbnd.com/kbnd-news/local-news-feed/347747
Heather RobertsTue, 13 Feb 2018 09:28:00 -0600http://kbnd.com/kbnd-news/local-news-feed/347747
BEND, OR -- A three-car garage east of Bend was destroyed in an early morning fire, Tuesday. Bend firefighters arrived at the property on Rickard Road just after 6:30 a.m., and found the building fully engulfed in flames.

Crews took defensive measures to ensure the nearby home wasn't damaged; it stood about 75' from the garage, which was being used for storage and as a hay barn. Because the building was a total loss, Bend Fire says investigators could not determine a cause, as no evidence remains.

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BEND, OR -- A three-car garage east of Bend was destroyed in an early morning fire, Tuesday. Bend firefighters arrived at the property on Rickard Road just after 6:30 a.m., and found the building fully engulfed in flames.

Crews took defensive measures to ensure the nearby home wasn't damaged; it stood about 75' from the garage, which was being used for storage and as a hay barn. Because the building was a total loss, Bend Fire says investigators could not determine a cause, as no evidence remains.

]]>La Pine Fire District Asks For Levy Renewal http://kbnd.com/kbnd-news/local-news-feed/347743
Danise LeeTue, 13 Feb 2018 09:17:00 -0600http://kbnd.com/kbnd-news/local-news-feed/347743
LA PINE, OR -- The La Pine Rural Fire protection District will ask voters in May to renew funding for the fire and EMS Service District. Fire Chief Mike Supkis says this is the same tax rate that's been in place for the last 20 years, "The district has been very conscientious with the tax dollars. we're a little of an anomaly, we don't carry any debt, we don't do any bonds, we believe every penny of taxpayers' dollars should go to provide the service, and that's kind of unusual today in local government." He tells KBND News, "The funds are necessary to provide the essential services of the fire district. And this fire district tracks every penny that [taxpayers] do give us, and they are resourceful and frugal with their tax dollars, and our folks set out to provide exemplary and caring service."

According to Supkis, the current levy is set to expire in July of 2019, and a vote to support the measure would extend the levy another five years. The District covers the three fire stations located at Huntington, Burgess/Day, and South Century Drive. "We've had levy support for this Fire District for over 20 years, and the community has strongly supported those levies, and our Board has been able to manage the Fire District on the funds our district has. Because it's a local option levy, we go out to the voters every five years, and basically, have them take a look, see how we're doing with their hard-earned tax funds, and are we doing the job we say we're doing with it."

If the levy passes, it would continue at $.64 per $1,000 of assessed value for an additional five years, which means a home valued at $100,000 would pay $64 a year.

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LA PINE, OR -- The La Pine Rural Fire protection District will ask voters in May to renew funding for the fire and EMS Service District. Fire Chief Mike Supkis says this is the same tax rate that's been in place for the last 20 years, "The district has been very conscientious with the tax dollars. we're a little of an anomaly, we don't carry any debt, we don't do any bonds, we believe every penny of taxpayers' dollars should go to provide the service, and that's kind of unusual today in local government." He tells KBND News, "The funds are necessary to provide the essential services of the fire district. And this fire district tracks every penny that [taxpayers] do give us, and they are resourceful and frugal with their tax dollars, and our folks set out to provide exemplary and caring service."

According to Supkis, the current levy is set to expire in July of 2019, and a vote to support the measure would extend the levy another five years. The District covers the three fire stations located at Huntington, Burgess/Day, and South Century Drive. "We've had levy support for this Fire District for over 20 years, and the community has strongly supported those levies, and our Board has been able to manage the Fire District on the funds our district has. Because it's a local option levy, we go out to the voters every five years, and basically, have them take a look, see how we're doing with their hard-earned tax funds, and are we doing the job we say we're doing with it."

If the levy passes, it would continue at $.64 per $1,000 of assessed value for an additional five years, which means a home valued at $100,000 would pay $64 a year.

]]>Local Non-Profit Receives Life-Saving Devicehttp://kbnd.com/kbnd-news/local-news-feed/347754
Danise LeeTue, 13 Feb 2018 08:56:00 -0600http://kbnd.com/kbnd-news/local-news-feed/347754
SISTERS, OR -- The Warfighter Outfitters of Sisters received an Automatic External Defibrillator as part of the Sisters Fire District Grant Program. Fire Chief Roger Johnson said Warfighters is a non-profit guide group that takes veterans on hunting and fishing trips out in the wild, where they might need portable lifesaving medical equipment.

Johnson said the non-profit, all volunteer organization was truly deserving. "These are people that have served our country, and sacrificed a lot for all of us. And, we thought it was a great partnership to make sure, while they're out in the environment, they had the protection of having an AED with them."

Johnson added that the Fire District Grant was for $250, which only amounted to 1/3 the cost of the AED, but the Volunteer association donated to cover the rest. Johnson said the AED program has really taken off in Sisters. "We work with our local businesses and encourage them to install AEDs, and this is a program that we're really pushing in our community, and it's a matching grant. We offer $250 towards the purchase of an AED."

22 local businesses have installed AEDs in the last year, with 9 have been awarded as part of the Sisters Fire District Grant. Johnson says AED's cost about $900.

Chief Johnson says these machines save lives. "Somebody has a sudden cardiac arrest, seconds really count, and having bystanders that can start CPR, and having quick access to an AED, are two of the most important elements in survivability."

The Warfighter Outfitters serve veterans and their families from all over Central Oregon.

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SISTERS, OR -- The Warfighter Outfitters of Sisters received an Automatic External Defibrillator as part of the Sisters Fire District Grant Program. Fire Chief Roger Johnson said Warfighters is a non-profit guide group that takes veterans on hunting and fishing trips out in the wild, where they might need portable lifesaving medical equipment.

Johnson said the non-profit, all volunteer organization was truly deserving. "These are people that have served our country, and sacrificed a lot for all of us. And, we thought it was a great partnership to make sure, while they're out in the environment, they had the protection of having an AED with them."

Johnson added that the Fire District Grant was for $250, which only amounted to 1/3 the cost of the AED, but the Volunteer association donated to cover the rest. Johnson said the AED program has really taken off in Sisters. "We work with our local businesses and encourage them to install AEDs, and this is a program that we're really pushing in our community, and it's a matching grant. We offer $250 towards the purchase of an AED."

22 local businesses have installed AEDs in the last year, with 9 have been awarded as part of the Sisters Fire District Grant. Johnson says AED's cost about $900.

Chief Johnson says these machines save lives. "Somebody has a sudden cardiac arrest, seconds really count, and having bystanders that can start CPR, and having quick access to an AED, are two of the most important elements in survivability."

The Warfighter Outfitters serve veterans and their families from all over Central Oregon.

]]>COCC To Partner With Tesla Motorshttp://kbnd.com/kbnd-news/local-news-feed/347696
Heather RobertsTue, 13 Feb 2018 07:24:00 -0600http://kbnd.com/kbnd-news/local-news-feed/347696
BEND, OR -- A Tesla Roadster is now orbiting the earth, and soon, we could be spotting more of the high-end electric vehicles around Bend. Ken Mays, with Central Oregon Community College’s automotive program, says the school just received approval last week, to develop a Tesla training program for technicians. "It’s a program called 'Tesla Start.' It partnerships with community colleges who have current electric/hybrid training," Mays tells KBND News.

The auto-maker has developed similar programs with other schools, but this is the first in our area. "They have a tremendous program for, not only the training, but their employees are treated very well. We’re excited about that," says Mays. He expects it’ll open up job opportunities for students who complete the certification process, "It is a guaranteed career; you will move quickly because they are developing service centers throughout the nation very rapidly."

Mays believes Tesla could eventually open a service center in the High Desert, "California has a huge number of service centers. Oregon so far has one in Portland, and that’s going to change." The COCC training program could be open by 2019.

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BEND, OR -- A Tesla Roadster is now orbiting the earth, and soon, we could be spotting more of the high-end electric vehicles around Bend. Ken Mays, with Central Oregon Community College’s automotive program, says the school just received approval last week, to develop a Tesla training program for technicians. "It’s a program called 'Tesla Start.' It partnerships with community colleges who have current electric/hybrid training," Mays tells KBND News.

The auto-maker has developed similar programs with other schools, but this is the first in our area. "They have a tremendous program for, not only the training, but their employees are treated very well. We’re excited about that," says Mays. He expects it’ll open up job opportunities for students who complete the certification process, "It is a guaranteed career; you will move quickly because they are developing service centers throughout the nation very rapidly."

Mays believes Tesla could eventually open a service center in the High Desert, "California has a huge number of service centers. Oregon so far has one in Portland, and that’s going to change." The COCC training program could be open by 2019.

]]>DCSO Lt. To Retire, Ending Internal Investigationhttp://kbnd.com/kbnd-news/local-news-feed/347679
Heather RobertsTue, 13 Feb 2018 06:40:00 -0600http://kbnd.com/kbnd-news/local-news-feed/347679
BEND, OR -- A Deschutes County Sheriff’s Lieutenant, who has been on paid administrative leave for nearly two years, will retire at the end of this month. Lt. Tim Leak was the subject of an internal affairs investigation for alleged policy violations.

Sheriff Shane Nelson says the agency reached a settlement which closes the investigation and ensures neither side will file a lawsuit against the other. "This is a business decision I've made in this matter, and continue to move the Sheriff's Office forward. This agreement is in the best interest of the citizens we work for," Nelson tells KBND News. "We're continually learning from our past and following the course we've charted for the future. People who do not fall in line with the mission and values of this office will not work here."

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BEND, OR -- A Deschutes County Sheriff’s Lieutenant, who has been on paid administrative leave for nearly two years, will retire at the end of this month. Lt. Tim Leak was the subject of an internal affairs investigation for alleged policy violations.

Sheriff Shane Nelson says the agency reached a settlement which closes the investigation and ensures neither side will file a lawsuit against the other. "This is a business decision I've made in this matter, and continue to move the Sheriff's Office forward. This agreement is in the best interest of the citizens we work for," Nelson tells KBND News. "We're continually learning from our past and following the course we've charted for the future. People who do not fall in line with the mission and values of this office will not work here."

]]>Bend Police Arrest Man Armed With Pitchforkhttp://kbnd.com/kbnd-news/local-news-feed/347647
Heather RobertsTue, 13 Feb 2018 05:46:00 -0600http://kbnd.com/kbnd-news/local-news-feed/347647
BEND, OR -- Bend Police arrested a pitchfork-wielding suspect after he reportedly caused a disturbance near Target. The 27-year-old Damascus man is accused of yelling at people in the parking lot, Sunday afternoon, then using the pitchfork to hit a parked truck. He then allegedly got into the truck, tried to start it, then broke out a window.

Officers contacted the suspect as he walked to a nearby business. During the investigation they learned the truck he damaged had been reported stolen from Woodburn, earlier that morning.

Kyle Griffin was taken into custody on several outstanding warrants, as well as charges of Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle, Disorderly Conduct and Criminal Mischief.

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BEND, OR -- Bend Police arrested a pitchfork-wielding suspect after he reportedly caused a disturbance near Target. The 27-year-old Damascus man is accused of yelling at people in the parking lot, Sunday afternoon, then using the pitchfork to hit a parked truck. He then allegedly got into the truck, tried to start it, then broke out a window.

Officers contacted the suspect as he walked to a nearby business. During the investigation they learned the truck he damaged had been reported stolen from Woodburn, earlier that morning.

Kyle Griffin was taken into custody on several outstanding warrants, as well as charges of Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle, Disorderly Conduct and Criminal Mischief.

]]>Two Cars Hit Two Redmond Buildingshttp://kbnd.com/kbnd-news/local-news-feed/347546
Heather RobertsMon, 12 Feb 2018 12:58:00 -0600http://kbnd.com/kbnd-news/local-news-feed/347546
REDMOND, OR -- Redmond Police responded to two crashes, Sunday night, both involving vehicles into buildings. The first occurred just after midnight on NW Larch Spur Court (pictured above, below). Investigators say the vehicle missed hitting a 10-year-old asleep in bed, by just a few feet. By the time officers arrived, the driver had left the scene.

Evidence at the scene led police to SW Cascade Mountain Lane, where they found a pickup matching the description of the suspect vehicle. They arrested 28-year-old Jory Markiss (right) for DUII and other charges.

Just after 1 a.m., officers responded to a second incident, when a vehicle hit the Double J Saloon on SW 6th Street, downtown. An employee reported that a woman had hit the vehicle then left the scene, leaving the vehicle behind. Investigators located the suspect about 30 minutes later, arresting 22-year-old Emma Walker for DUII and other crimes. She was issued a citation and released.

Redmond PD also reports three other DUII drivers were arrested between Friday evening and early Saturday.

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REDMOND, OR -- Redmond Police responded to two crashes, Sunday night, both involving vehicles into buildings. The first occurred just after midnight on NW Larch Spur Court (pictured above, below). Investigators say the vehicle missed hitting a 10-year-old asleep in bed, by just a few feet. By the time officers arrived, the driver had left the scene.

Evidence at the scene led police to SW Cascade Mountain Lane, where they found a pickup matching the description of the suspect vehicle. They arrested 28-year-old Jory Markiss (right) for DUII and other charges.

Just after 1 a.m., officers responded to a second incident, when a vehicle hit the Double J Saloon on SW 6th Street, downtown. An employee reported that a woman had hit the vehicle then left the scene, leaving the vehicle behind. Investigators located the suspect about 30 minutes later, arresting 22-year-old Emma Walker for DUII and other crimes. She was issued a citation and released.

Redmond PD also reports three other DUII drivers were arrested between Friday evening and early Saturday.

]]>South County Crashes Tie Up Morning Commutehttp://kbnd.com/kbnd-news/local-news-feed/347517
Heather RobertsMon, 12 Feb 2018 11:16:00 -0600http://kbnd.com/kbnd-news/local-news-feed/347517
LA PINE, OR -- La Pine Fire crews responded to several crashes on Highway 97 Monday morning, as winter returned to the High Desert. The first call came in at about 7:25 a.m., when the driver of a pickup lost control and rolled the vehicle near milepost 157. He was able to get himself out, but was taken to the hospital with back and neck pain.

The second incident occurred just after 9:30 a.m. in the same area. That driver lost control of of the pickup and also rolled, trapping two people inside. They were not severely injured, but crews helped get them out.

Sunriver Fire assisted on both calls, and Crescent Fire medics stopped to help on their way back to their district from the hospital.

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LA PINE, OR -- La Pine Fire crews responded to several crashes on Highway 97 Monday morning, as winter returned to the High Desert. The first call came in at about 7:25 a.m., when the driver of a pickup lost control and rolled the vehicle near milepost 157. He was able to get himself out, but was taken to the hospital with back and neck pain.

The second incident occurred just after 9:30 a.m. in the same area. That driver lost control of of the pickup and also rolled, trapping two people inside. They were not severely injured, but crews helped get them out.

Sunriver Fire assisted on both calls, and Crescent Fire medics stopped to help on their way back to their district from the hospital.

]]>Sunriver Starts Search for New Police Chiefhttp://kbnd.com/kbnd-news/local-news-feed/347516
Danise LeeMon, 12 Feb 2018 11:12:00 -0600http://kbnd.com/kbnd-news/local-news-feed/347516
SUNRIVER, OR -- Sunriver Police Chief Marc Mills resigned his post, last week, leaving the District Department without a leader. Sunriver Service District Chair Jim Fister told Central Oregon Daily that Bend Police Captain Corey Darling did a great job as interim Chief, but they've chosen someone else to head the department going forward. "I do have authority under my Chairmanship to appoint someone temporarily as Interim Chief, and we've asked Scott Hayes who's a retired, I believe, Deputy Chief from Salem to step in for us. We will confirm Scott at our upcoming regular meeting on Thursday." Capt. Darline will return to Bend PD. Hayes will take over while the search continues for a permanent replacement. Fister hopes a new Chief will be hired in the next two to three months.

Mills had been on leave since early December, when he allegedly punched a fellow officer while on duty. Fister says other complaints came to light during that investigation, including inappropriate comments and angry outbursts, leading to the agreement to end the Chief's contract. According to Fister, the Board took everything, including community input, into account in deciding to end Mills' contract. "It was divided on both sides; there were some fans, including myself, by the way, who really appreciate the job Marc had been doing. And there were some others who felt that the details they had heard were concerning. And, you know, obviously, we would take that into account, but what we really wanted to do was we wanted to have that discussion with Marc and his representatives himself to really come to a conclusion." Fister says it was a difficult decision, but one that everyone, eventually, found necessary, due to the recent developments, "We did highlight some additional workplace violations, some irrational outbursts of anger and inappropriate comments, some of the officers had expressed fear of retaliation. Those would be violations under our employee handbook or our workplace policies. I think when we looked at those things and just had discussions with Marc and his representatives, that was when we agreed that it would probably be best if he resigned. And he agreed." Mills had over 40 years of service to Central Oregon.

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SUNRIVER, OR -- Sunriver Police Chief Marc Mills resigned his post, last week, leaving the District Department without a leader. Sunriver Service District Chair Jim Fister told Central Oregon Daily that Bend Police Captain Corey Darling did a great job as interim Chief, but they've chosen someone else to head the department going forward. "I do have authority under my Chairmanship to appoint someone temporarily as Interim Chief, and we've asked Scott Hayes who's a retired, I believe, Deputy Chief from Salem to step in for us. We will confirm Scott at our upcoming regular meeting on Thursday." Capt. Darline will return to Bend PD. Hayes will take over while the search continues for a permanent replacement. Fister hopes a new Chief will be hired in the next two to three months.

Mills had been on leave since early December, when he allegedly punched a fellow officer while on duty. Fister says other complaints came to light during that investigation, including inappropriate comments and angry outbursts, leading to the agreement to end the Chief's contract. According to Fister, the Board took everything, including community input, into account in deciding to end Mills' contract. "It was divided on both sides; there were some fans, including myself, by the way, who really appreciate the job Marc had been doing. And there were some others who felt that the details they had heard were concerning. And, you know, obviously, we would take that into account, but what we really wanted to do was we wanted to have that discussion with Marc and his representatives himself to really come to a conclusion." Fister says it was a difficult decision, but one that everyone, eventually, found necessary, due to the recent developments, "We did highlight some additional workplace violations, some irrational outbursts of anger and inappropriate comments, some of the officers had expressed fear of retaliation. Those would be violations under our employee handbook or our workplace policies. I think when we looked at those things and just had discussions with Marc and his representatives, that was when we agreed that it would probably be best if he resigned. And he agreed." Mills had over 40 years of service to Central Oregon.

]]>Redmond City Council Discusses Utility Feehttp://kbnd.com/kbnd-news/local-news-feed/347492
Heather RobertsMon, 12 Feb 2018 10:14:00 -0600http://kbnd.com/kbnd-news/local-news-feed/347492
REDMOND, OR -- Redmond City Councilors will decide Tuesday whether to send an initiative to the May ballot for a public safety fee. City staff and the police department have spent several months hosting public meetings on the $6 monthly charge proposed for utility bills. City Manager Keith Witcosky isn’t sure what Councilors will decide, "We’ve just tried to provide them an inclusive list of options." He tells KBND News, "What we’ve been doing to date is just feeding back information to them, giving them data about the percentage of the people who support a fee or don’t support a fee. And, this would be the first comprehensive conversation we’ve had. We just want to make sure that they are fully informed so they can have a good conversation."

That conversation includes more than a half dozen options, ranging from approving the fee immediately to maintaining the status quo, "They have the authority to approve a fee on their own," says Witcosky, "They could also say, ‘we want voter input on this, so we want to refer a fee to the ballot and let the voters decide.’ If they want to fund it through taxes, they could put a temporary operating levy for voter decisions. They could also increase our permanent tax rate." If they choose to send any of those options to the May ballot, they must direct staff Tuesday to create a ballot title, so it can be approved at the next Council meeting on February 20.

Or, Witcosky says, "They could say, ‘we know that there’s public safety needs. We don’t know if we have additional resources now to bring to the table, but we’d like to see a budget that prioritizes those and get a sense of what the trade-off would be to other general fund programs. They could also say, ‘let’s continue this initiative and let’s target a public vote either this fall, or in 2019 or 2020’.” Or, he says, they could decide to do nothing and keep the police department's staffing at the current level.

Tuesday's City Council Metting begins at 6 p.m. at Redmond's City Hall.

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REDMOND, OR -- Redmond City Councilors will decide Tuesday whether to send an initiative to the May ballot for a public safety fee. City staff and the police department have spent several months hosting public meetings on the $6 monthly charge proposed for utility bills. City Manager Keith Witcosky isn’t sure what Councilors will decide, "We’ve just tried to provide them an inclusive list of options." He tells KBND News, "What we’ve been doing to date is just feeding back information to them, giving them data about the percentage of the people who support a fee or don’t support a fee. And, this would be the first comprehensive conversation we’ve had. We just want to make sure that they are fully informed so they can have a good conversation."

That conversation includes more than a half dozen options, ranging from approving the fee immediately to maintaining the status quo, "They have the authority to approve a fee on their own," says Witcosky, "They could also say, ‘we want voter input on this, so we want to refer a fee to the ballot and let the voters decide.’ If they want to fund it through taxes, they could put a temporary operating levy for voter decisions. They could also increase our permanent tax rate." If they choose to send any of those options to the May ballot, they must direct staff Tuesday to create a ballot title, so it can be approved at the next Council meeting on February 20.

Or, Witcosky says, "They could say, ‘we know that there’s public safety needs. We don’t know if we have additional resources now to bring to the table, but we’d like to see a budget that prioritizes those and get a sense of what the trade-off would be to other general fund programs. They could also say, ‘let’s continue this initiative and let’s target a public vote either this fall, or in 2019 or 2020’.” Or, he says, they could decide to do nothing and keep the police department's staffing at the current level.

Tuesday's City Council Metting begins at 6 p.m. at Redmond's City Hall.

]]>DCSO Searches For Redmond Assault Suspecthttp://kbnd.com/kbnd-news/local-news-feed/347469
Heather RobertsMon, 12 Feb 2018 09:36:00 -0600http://kbnd.com/kbnd-news/local-news-feed/347469
REDMOND, OR -- The Deschutes County Sheriff's Office is searching for the people responsible for an assault that occurred last week in northeast Redmond.

Deputies were dispatched to NE Maple Ave. early Tuesday morning and found the 30-year-old victim near the High Desert Sports Complex. He was taken to the hospital with non-life threatening injuries and released the next day. No suspects were found at the time, despite an extensive search.

Investigators believe the man was assaulted by more than one person. Anyone with information in the case is asked to call the Sheriff’s Office at 541-693-6911.

UPDATE (2/12/18) -- Deschutes County Sheriff's Detectives believe this was an isolated incident and say the victim has chosen not to cooperate with the investigation. They believe the suspects and victim know each other.

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REDMOND, OR -- The Deschutes County Sheriff's Office is searching for the people responsible for an assault that occurred last week in northeast Redmond.

Deputies were dispatched to NE Maple Ave. early Tuesday morning and found the 30-year-old victim near the High Desert Sports Complex. He was taken to the hospital with non-life threatening injuries and released the next day. No suspects were found at the time, despite an extensive search.

Investigators believe the man was assaulted by more than one person. Anyone with information in the case is asked to call the Sheriff’s Office at 541-693-6911.

UPDATE (2/12/18) -- Deschutes County Sheriff's Detectives believe this was an isolated incident and say the victim has chosen not to cooperate with the investigation. They believe the suspects and victim know each other.

]]>FEMA Grant To Reimburse Bend Schoolshttp://kbnd.com/kbnd-news/local-news-feed/347445
Heather RobertsMon, 12 Feb 2018 08:15:00 -0600http://kbnd.com/kbnd-news/local-news-feed/347445
BEND, OR -- Bend-La Pine Schools will receive more than a million dollars in federal funding to cover costs incurred during last winter's record snowfall. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will provide $1.1 million to cover expenses for engineering evaluations and snow removal that were necessary when the region received massive amounts of snow. Storms also resulted in the collapse of the Kenwood School gym (pictured).

In announcing the grant award Friday, U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden said it’s important the district recoup costs and ensure students and staff are safe. "Last year's snowstorm walloped central Oregon and it's essential that the Bend-La Pine School District gets these federal resources to help recover costs," Wyden says in a statement.

"These much-needed funds will help the Bend-La Pine School District recover from serious damage caused by last winter's snowstorms," Merkley said in a statement.

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BEND, OR -- Bend-La Pine Schools will receive more than a million dollars in federal funding to cover costs incurred during last winter's record snowfall. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will provide $1.1 million to cover expenses for engineering evaluations and snow removal that were necessary when the region received massive amounts of snow. Storms also resulted in the collapse of the Kenwood School gym (pictured).

In announcing the grant award Friday, U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden said it’s important the district recoup costs and ensure students and staff are safe. "Last year's snowstorm walloped central Oregon and it's essential that the Bend-La Pine School District gets these federal resources to help recover costs," Wyden says in a statement.

"These much-needed funds will help the Bend-La Pine School District recover from serious damage caused by last winter's snowstorms," Merkley said in a statement.

]]>Suspect Arrested For Attempted Murder of Roommatehttp://kbnd.com/kbnd-news/local-news-feed/347432
Heather RobertsMon, 12 Feb 2018 07:45:00 -0600http://kbnd.com/kbnd-news/local-news-feed/347432
BEND, OR -- A 34-year-old Bend man was arrested Sunday, accused of repeatedly assaulting his roommate over a 12-hour span. According to the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office, the two had a disagreement on Saturday over the suspect moving out of the house on Old Bend Redmond Highway. Matthew Planteen reportedly assaulted his 63-year-old roommate with a hammer at about 3:30 a.m., while the victim slept.

He then allegedly drug the man around the house while continuing to strike him with a hammer. The victim was finally able to call friends for help around 4 p.m. They showed up, realized what was going on and called 911. The friends armed themselves with a baseball bat and held Planteen at bay until deputies arrived.

Planteen will be charged with Attempted Murder, Assault, Kidnapping, Unlawful Use of a Weapon, Attempted Escape, Tampering with Evidence and Resisting Arrest. He's being held on $480,000 bail and is scheduled to appear in court Monday afternoon.

The victim was taken to the hospital with serious injuries.

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BEND, OR -- A 34-year-old Bend man was arrested Sunday, accused of repeatedly assaulting his roommate over a 12-hour span. According to the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office, the two had a disagreement on Saturday over the suspect moving out of the house on Old Bend Redmond Highway. Matthew Planteen reportedly assaulted his 63-year-old roommate with a hammer at about 3:30 a.m., while the victim slept.

He then allegedly drug the man around the house while continuing to strike him with a hammer. The victim was finally able to call friends for help around 4 p.m. They showed up, realized what was going on and called 911. The friends armed themselves with a baseball bat and held Planteen at bay until deputies arrived.

Planteen will be charged with Attempted Murder, Assault, Kidnapping, Unlawful Use of a Weapon, Attempted Escape, Tampering with Evidence and Resisting Arrest. He's being held on $480,000 bail and is scheduled to appear in court Monday afternoon.